The Four Périgords

The Dordogne is famously divided into four distinct areas, each with its own character and charm:

Périgord Vert – Lush green landscapes and charming villages in the north.

Périgord Blanc – Limestone plateaus and historic towns such as Périgueux.

Périgord Noir – Dramatic landscapes, medieval castles, and prehistoric cave art around Sarlat and Lascaux.

Périgord Pourpre – Named for its vineyards and historic bastide towns like Bergerac.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (EGC), which offers direct flights from various European cities including London, Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris. For more international options, fly into Bordeaux–Mérignac (BOD) or Toulouse-Blagnac (TLS), both approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car from the heart of the Dordogne.

By Train

The TGV high-speed train connects Paris to Bordeaux in just over two hours. From Bordeaux, regional trains run frequently to Périgueux, Sarlat-la-Canéda, and Bergerac. This is often the most comfortable and scenic way to reach the region from Paris or other major French cities.

By Car

The Dordogne is well connected by the A20 and A89 motorways. The drive from Paris takes about 5–6 hours, from Bordeaux around 1.5 hours, and from Toulouse about 2.5 hours. The journey itself is beautiful, passing through rolling hills and vineyards.

By Car (Recommended)

Exploring the Dordogne is best done by car. Public transportation is limited, and many of the most beautiful villages, castles, and prehistoric sites are spread across the countryside. Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and discover hidden gems. The region’s well-maintained roads and scenic routes make driving a pleasure.

1. Lascaux Caves – A Journey into Prehistoric Art

When exploring things to see and do in the Dordogne, the Lascaux Caves should be at the top of your list. Located in the Vézère Valley, these caves contain over 600 paintings dating back over 20,000 years. Although the original caves are closed to the public, Lascaux IV offers an incredibly accurate replica experience.

2. Sarlat-la-Canéda – A Medieval Treasure

Wandering through the medieval streets of Sarlat-la-Canéda is a must. This beautifully preserved town with golden limestone buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and a famous twice-weekly market is one of the highlights of the Dordogne.

3. Château de Beynac – A Majestic Fortress

Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River, Château de Beynac offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into medieval history. One of the best-preserved castles in the region.

4. Gardens of Marqueyssac – A Stroll Through Nature’s Masterpiece

These stunning gardens with over 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods offer peaceful walks and panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley. A perfect blend of nature and design.

5. The Dordogne River – A Scenic Waterway

Canoeing or kayaking along the Dordogne River is one of the most popular activities. You’ll pass charming villages, towering cliffs, and historic castles along the way.

6. Rocamadour – A Pilgrimage to the Cliffside Village

This dramatic medieval village built into the cliffs has been a major pilgrimage site for centuries. The Sanctuary and the Grand Staircase are unforgettable.

7. Gouffre de Padirac – An Underground Adventure

This extraordinary chasm leads to a vast network of subterranean caves and rivers. A boat tour on the underground river is a unique highlight.

8. Domme – A Bastide Town with Panoramic Views

Perched high on a hill, Domme offers stunning panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley and well-preserved medieval architecture.

9. Château de Castelnaud – A Fortress of Medieval Warfare

This impressive castle now houses a large museum dedicated to medieval warfare with an extensive collection of weapons and armor.

10. Prehistoric Sites of the Vézère Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage site containing some of the most important prehistoric caves in the world, including Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume.